Core American Values

The Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty symbolizes freedom, a fundamental American value.

Typical American values include achievement, success, equality, individualism, activity, work,
education, efficiency, practicality, religiosity, progress, romance, monogamy, science and
technology, equal opportunity, materialism, nationalism and patriotism, humanitarianism,
external conformity, freedom, democracy and free enterprise. These values are embraced by most
Americans and enshrined in American institutions.

The United States, a pluralistic society, is made up of many different groups. They represent
different political and social ideologies, religions and racial-ethnic groups, as well as countless
thousands of interest groups that center around such divergent activities as collecting Barbie dolls
and hunting quail.

But we do share core values (macro-level non-material culture). These values are generally
assumed to be “the American way” and are taught to school children as morality and signs of good
character. We are all socialized to believe in them through media presentations, political
speeches, and in the workplace.

Sociologist Robin Williams (no, not him) identified these values in 1965.

1. Individualism (“Consistent Persistence”) Americans have traditionally prized success

that comes from individual effort and initiative. They cherish the ideal that an individual can rise
from the bottom of society to its very top. If someone fails to “get ahead,” Americans generally
find fault with that individual, rather than with the social system for placing roadblocks in his or
her path.

2. Achievement and Success (“Success Emphasis”) Americans place a high value on

personal achievement, especially outdoing others. This value includes getting ahead at work and
school, and attaining wealth, power, and prestige.

3. Activity and Work (“Work for Work’s Sake”) Americans expect people to work hard
and to be busily engaged in some activity even when not at work.

4. Efficiency and Practicality Americans award high marks for getting things done efficiently.
Even in everyday life, Americans consider it important to do things fast, and they constantly seek
ways to increase efficiency.
5. Science and Technology Americans have a passion for applied science, for using science to
control nature – to tame rivers and harness wind – and to develop new technology, from
motorized scooters to talking computers.

6. Progress :Americans expect rapid technological change . They believe that they
should constantly build “more and better” gadgets that will help them move toward that vague
goal called “progress.”

7. Material Comfort Americans expect a high level of material comfort. This comfort includes
not only good nutrition, medical care, and housing, but also late-model cars and recreational
playthings – from boats o computer games.

8. Humanitarianism Americans emphasize helpfulness, personal kindness, aid in mass

disasters, and organized philanthropy.

9. Freedom This core value pervades U.S. life. It underscored the American Revolution, and
Americans pride themselves on their personal freedom.

10. Democracy By this term, Americans refer to majority rule, to the right of everyone to
express an opinion, and to representative government.

11. Equality It is impossible to understand Americans without being aware of the central role
that the value of equality plays in their lives. Equality of opportunity has significantly influenced
U.S. history and continues to mark relations between groups that make up U.S. society.

12. Racism and Group Superiority Although it contradicts freedom, democracy, and
equality, Americans value some groups more than others and have done so throughout their
history. The slaughter of Native Americans and the enslaving of Africans are the most notorious
examples.

In 1975, Sociologist James Henslin updated Williams’ analysis be adding three

values.
1. Education Americans are expected to go as far in school as their abilities and finances allow.
Over the years, the definition of an “adequate” education has changed, and today a college
education is considered an appropriate goal for most Americans. Those who have an opportunity
for higher education and do not take it are sometimes viewed as doing something “wrong” – not
merely as making a bad choice, but as somehow being involved in an immoral act.

2. Religiosity There is a feeling that “every true American ought to be religious.” This does not
mean that everyone is expected to join a church, synagogue, or mosque, but that everyone ought
to acknowledge a belief in a Supreme Being and follow some set of matching precepts. This value
is so pervasive that Americans stamp “In God We Trust” on their money and declare in their
national pledge of allegiance that they are “one nation under God.”

3. Romantic Love Americans feel that the only proper basis for marriage is romantic love.
Songs, literature, mass media, and “folk beliefs” all stress this value. They especially love the
theme that “love conquers all.” http://talkingsociology.blogspot.com/2008/05/core-american-
values-handout.html

13 Commonly Held American Values

By L. Robert Kohls www.uku.fi/~paganuzz/xcult/values/Amer_values.htm

1. Personal control over the environment - Americans do not generally believe in the
power of fate; they see this as superstitious and reflective of an unwillingness to take initiative.
Life’s problems tend to be viewed as coming from one’s laziness or unwillingness to take
responsibility, rather than from bad luck.

2. Change - Americans tend to see change as good, leading to development, improvement, and
progress. More traditional cultures see change as destructive; they value stability and tradition.

3. Time - Time is of utmost importance to Americans. Time is something to be on, kept, filled,
saved, lost, wasted, and even killed. Americans tend to be more concerned with getting things
done on time than they are with interpersonal relationships. Americans stop discussions abruptly
in order to make appointments on time and to be productive.

4. Equality and fairness - Equality is so valued in American culture that it is seen as having a
religious basis. At least in theory, Americans believe that all people are created equal and that
everyone should have equal opportunities.
5. Individualism and interdependence - Americans tend to view themselves as highly
individualistic and resist being thought of as part of any homogenous group. Individualism leads to
privacy, which most Americans highly value. It is interesting to note that the word for “privacy”
does not even exist in many non- Western languages.

6. Self-help and initiative - Americans tend to take credit for accomplishments as

individuals, and they tend to value the “self-made” man or woman.

7. Competition - Americans tend to believe that competition brings out the best in people, and
“free enterprise” is valued in many areas of life.

8. Future orientation - Americans tend to value the future, devalue the past, and to an extent,
are unaware of the present. Many Americans work so hard and think so much about their future
that a perfectly happy present often goes unnoticed.

9. Action/work orientation - Americans tend to see any action as superior to inaction.

Americans tend to schedule an active life and schedule in time for relaxation. Often the first
question people ask each other when meeting is, “What do you do?” meaning what is their
profession.

10. Informality - Americans are more informal than many other cultures. For example, many
Americans call their bosses by their first names, dress is more casual attire, even at formal events,
and even greetings are casual (e.g., “Hi” rather than, “Hello, how are you?”).

11. Directness, openness, and honesty - Americans tend to prefer the direct approach to
delivering information, no matter how unpleasant. Americans tend to see honesty as most
important, and anyone who uses an intermediary to deliver unpleasant information is seen as
manipulative and untrustworthy.

12. Practicality and efficiency - The reputation of Americans is practical and efficient. They
tend to value rational and objective decisions over emotional and subjective ones, and the
pragmatic approach is the overwhelming philosophy.

13. Materialism and acquisitiveness - Foreigners tend to consider Americans to be very

materialistic. Americans tend to give high priority to obtaining, maintaining, and protecting
material objects, and they value newness and innovation.
http://globalsojourns.com/imagedump/Giving%20Circle/travelarticles/American_Traits.pdf
Cultures have values that are largely shared by their members. The values of a society can often be
identified by noting that which people receive, honor or respect.

Values are related to the norms of a culture, but they are more global and abstract than norms.
Norms are rules for behavior in specific situations, while values identify what should be judged as
either good or evil. Flying the national flag on a holiday is a norm, but it reflects the value of
patriotism. Wearing dark clothing and appearing solemn are normative behaviors at a funeral; in
certain cultures, they reflect the values of respect and support for friends and family.

Different cultures reflect different values. American culture includes both conservative and liberal
elements, such as scientific and religious competitiveness, political structures, risk taking and free
expression, materialist and moral elements. Aside from certain consistent ideological principles
(e.g. individualism, egalitarianism and faith in freedom and democracy), American culture's
geographical scale and demographic diversity has spawned a variety of expressions. The flexibility
of U.S. culture and its highly symbolic nature lead some researchers to categorize American
culture as a mythic identity, while others recognize it as American exceptionalism.

some examples of the diffusion and projection of American value system

1. McDonald's: McDonald's is an American fast food chain that has expanded to become one of
the most recognizable brands in the world. The spread of McDonald's and other American
fast food chains has been seen as an example of the diffusion of American consumer culture
and values.

2. Hollywood movies: Hollywood movies are known for promoting American cultural values
and beliefs, such as individualism, capitalism, and the pursuit of the American Dream. The
popularity of Hollywood movies has led to the diffusion of American cultural values and the
projection of American cultural influence around the world.

3. American English: American English has become a global lingua franca, used in business,
academia, and entertainment around the world. The spread of American English has been
seen as an example of the diffusion of American cultural values and the projection of
American cultural influence.

4. Social media: Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram have become
globally popular, and have been used to promote American cultural values and beliefs, such
as freedom of speech and the importance of personal expression.

5. American-style education: American-style education, which emphasizes critical thinking,

creativity, and innovation, has become increasingly popular around the world, with many
universities and schools adopting American-style curricula and pedagogy.
 6. American sports: American sports, such as basketball, baseball, and American football, have
become popular around the world, and have been used to promote American cultural values
such as competition, teamwork, and determination.

the diffusion and projection of American value system using Bloom's Taxonomy:

Knowledge: What is meant by the diffusion of American values?

Answer: The diffusion of American values refers to the spread of American cultural
values and beliefs to other parts of the world.

The diffusion of American values refers to the spread of cultural, political, and economic ideals
associated with the United States to other parts of the world. This can happen through various
channels, including globalization, media, trade, diplomacy, and migration.

Key Aspects of American Values Spread

1. Democracy & Political Ideals – Concepts like freedom of speech, individual rights, and
democratic governance have influenced political movements worldwide.

2. Economic Liberalism & Capitalism – The promotion of free markets, consumerism, and
entrepreneurship is a major aspect of American influence.

3. Pop Culture & Media – Hollywood, music, fashion, and social media platforms (like
Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok) play a huge role in shaping global trends.

4. Technology & Innovation – American companies like Apple, Google, and Microsoft set global
standards in technology and digital culture.

5. Language & Communication – English, particularly American English, has become a

dominant global language in business, academia, and pop culture.

6. Social & Cultural Norms – Ideas related to individualism, gender equality, and personal
freedoms (e.g., LGBTQ+ rights) have been widely promoted through American media and
policies.

Methods of Diffusion

 Soft Power: Through media, education, and cultural exchange programs.

 Economic Influence: Trade, multinational corporations, and consumer brands.

 Technology & Social Media: Platforms that promote American ways of communication and
interaction.

 Migration & Diaspora: Immigrants spreading American ideals back to their home countries.

Some critics argue that the diffusion of American values leads to cultural homogenization or cultural
imperialism, where local traditions and identities are overshadowed by Western influences. Others
see it as a positive force for modernization and global connectivity.
Comprehension: How has the diffusion of American values occurred?

Answer: The diffusion of American values has occurred through a range of channels,
including media and entertainment, education, and the spread of American brands and
products.

Application: In what ways have American values been projected onto other cultures?

Answer: American values have been projected onto other cultures through the
promotion of American cultural products, such as music, film, and television shows,
and through the adoption of American cultural practices, such as the spread of
American fast food chains and the use of American English as a lingua franca.

Analysis: What are some of the effects of the diffusion and projection of American
values on other cultures?

Answer: The diffusion and projection of American values can have both positive and
negative effects on other cultures. On the one hand, it can lead to greater cultural
exchange and understanding. On the other hand, it can lead to the erosion of local
cultures and the dominance of American cultural values.

The diffusion and projection of American values have had both positive and negative effects on
other cultures. These effects vary depending on how American values interact with local traditions,
economies, and social structures.

Positive Effects

1. Spread of Democracy and Human Rights

American ideals of democracy, freedom of speech, and human rights have influenced many
countries, leading to political reforms.
✅ Example:

 The Arab Spring (2010-2012) was partly inspired by American democratic ideals, with
protesters using social media (Twitter, Facebook) to advocate for freedom and government
accountability.

2. Economic Growth and Innovation

American companies and capitalist principles have promoted entrepreneurship, technological

progress, and economic development in many regions.
✅ Example:

 The Silicon Valley model has inspired startup cultures in countries like India (Bangalore),
China (Shenzhen), and Nigeria (Lagos), leading to economic growth.

3. Globalization of Pop Culture

American entertainment—Hollywood movies, music, and fashion—has influenced global trends,

making cultures more interconnected.
✅ Example:
  Hip-hop culture originated in the U.S. but has become popular worldwide, influencing local
music scenes in places like South Korea (K-hip-hop) and France.

4. Increased Gender Equality and LGBTQ+ Rights

American media and advocacy have helped promote social movements for gender and LGBTQ+
rights in many countries.
✅ Example:

 Same-sex marriage legalization in Taiwan (2019) and Argentina (2010) was influenced by
global LGBTQ+ rights movements, partly shaped by American activism.

Negative Effects

1. Cultural Homogenization & Loss of Traditional Identity

The dominance of American culture can overshadow local traditions, leading to cultural erosion.
❌ Example:

 Fast food chains like McDonald’s have replaced traditional diets in many countries,
contributing to a decline in local culinary traditions and an increase in health issues (e.g.,
rising obesity rates in Japan and Mexico).

2. Consumerism & Materialism

American-style capitalism promotes excessive consumerism, which can lead to economic inequalities
and unsustainable consumption.
❌ Example:

 The rapid spread of Black Friday sales in Europe and Asia reflects American consumer habits,
sometimes leading to unnecessary spending and financial strain on individuals.

3. Political Backlash & Resistance

Some countries resist American values, seeing them as a form of cultural imperialism or Western
interference.
❌ Example:

 China and Russia actively censor American media and social media platforms like Google,
Facebook, and Twitter to prevent Western influence on their societies.

4. Language Domination & Erosion of Indigenous Languages

The spread of English as a global language can marginalize local languages and dialects.
❌ Example:

 In many African and Asian countries, English is becoming the dominant language in
education and business, sometimes at the expense of indigenous languages.

Conclusion
The diffusion of American values has reshaped societies worldwide, bringing both progress and
challenges. While it has promoted democracy, innovation, and human rights, it has also contributed
to cultural erosion, consumerism, and political resistance.

Synthesis: How might alternative value systems challenge the diffusion and
projection of American values?

Answer: Alternative value systems, such as those based on traditional cultural

practices or environmental sustainability, can challenge the diffusion and projection
of American values by offering alternative frameworks for understanding the world
and living in it.

Evaluation: To what extent is the projection of American values a form of cultural

imperialism?

Answer: The projection of American values can be seen as a form of cultural

imperialism, in that it represents an attempt to impose American cultural values and
beliefs on other cultures. However, it is also possible to argue that the diffusion of
American values reflects a genuine desire to share American culture and values with
the world.

The Projection of American Values as Cultural Imperialism

The projection of American values is often seen as cultural imperialism, a concept where one
dominant culture imposes its values, norms, and lifestyle on others, sometimes at the expense of
local traditions. This can occur through media, consumerism, politics, and economic influence. While
some argue that globalization naturally spreads culture, critics view it as a form of dominance that
shapes global identities in favor of American ideals.

1. What is Cultural Imperialism?

Cultural imperialism refers to the imposition of one culture’s values and practices over another,
often through media, trade, and political influence. In the American context, this can happen
through:

 Media & Entertainment: Hollywood, Netflix, music, and social media set cultural norms.

 Consumerism & Brands: American corporations influence global economies and lifestyles.

 Political & Social Influence: The U.S. promotes democracy, human rights, and individualism
abroad.

2. How American Values Exhibit Cultural Imperialism

A. Media Domination & Hollywood’s Global Influence

American movies, TV shows, and music shape how people see success, relationships, and societal
roles.
📌 Example: Hollywood films dominate global cinema, often overshadowing local film industries.

 Bollywood and Nollywood struggle against Hollywood’s global reach, as Western movies
take priority in theaters worldwide.

 Netflix and Disney+ promote American storytelling, reducing demand for regional films and
shows.

Cultural Impact: Local audiences internalize American ideals of beauty, relationships, and success
while sidelining their own cultural narratives.

B. Fast Food & Consumerism Replacing Traditional Lifestyles

American corporations export consumer culture, sometimes leading to the erosion of traditional
diets and habits.
📌 Example: The global spread of McDonald’s and Starbucks

 China’s tea culture faces competition from Starbucks, shifting youth preferences to coffee.

 Mexico and Japan have seen increases in obesity rates partly due to American fast food
culture.

Cultural Impact: Local dietary customs change, and indigenous cuisines become "Americanized" to
fit fast food trends.

C. The Spread of English and the Decline of Indigenous Languages

English, especially American English, is becoming the global lingua franca, pushing out indigenous
languages.
📌 Example:

 In Kenya and India, English is prioritized over native languages in education and business.

 In Quebec, Canada, there is resistance to American English influence to protect French

identity.

Cultural Impact: Generations grow up preferring English, leading to a decline in native language
fluency and cultural traditions.

D. Political & Social Influence: The "Export" of Democracy

The U.S. actively promotes democracy, human rights, and gender equality abroad, sometimes
through intervention.
📌 Example:

 The Iraq War (2003): Justified partly as spreading democracy, but seen by many as cultural
imperialism.
  LGBTQ+ rights in Africa: American NGOs push for LGBTQ+ rights, sometimes clashing with
conservative cultural values.

Cultural Impact: While democratic ideals promote freedom, they sometimes clash with deeply
rooted local traditions, leading to resistance or backlash.

3. Is It Always Cultural Imperialism?

Some argue that the diffusion of American values is not imperialism but globalization, where
cultures naturally exchange ideas.
✅ Example: K-Pop’s rise has blended Western influences with Korean traditions, creating a new
global trend.
✅ Example: American technology (Google, Apple) provides global connectivity and knowledge-
sharing.

However, when American culture dominates without equal exchange, it becomes cultural
imperialism rather than cultural sharing.

Conclusion: The Gray Area of Influence vs. Imperialism

The projection of American values can be seen as cultural imperialism when it suppresses or
replaces local traditions rather than coexisting with them. While American influence has introduced
progressive changes, such as gender equality and technological innovation, it has also led to cultural
erosion, economic dependency, and resistance in many regions.